Master's in Sociology Research & Practice (SORP)
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Thank you for your interest in the Master of Arts in Sociology Research & Practice (SORP) at American University!
Our students immerse themselves in research focusing on the social determinants of health—particularly related to social inequities of race/ethnicity, social class, gender and sexuality—in connection to other sociological subfields, such as urban development, migration, education, and social movements.
AU’s program is set apart by its practicum experience, in which you will work with faculty over four semesters to complete a professional-quality research project. The practicum provides a unique opportunity to learn the practical skills necessary to conduct research and communicate your findings. You will gain practical, hands-on experience working side-by-side with faculty on cutting-edge research to improve society’s health and well-being.
The Master of Arts in Sociology Research and Practice will prepare you for a doctoral program or a career in social advocacy, research, teaching, human services, or policy-making. In this program, you will learn methods of doing research on health and society; engage in a research project focused on issues in Washington, DC; build your qualitative and quantitative data analysis capacity; and hone your ability to present results of research to various audiences.
The primary feature of our program is a four-semester sequence that gives you hands-on experience in the process of social science research. This unique practicum experience allows you to learn the practical application of research methods while working in a team and with faculty members on significant academic research projects.
The first semester’s curriculum introduces students to research methods, and students start a substantial research project. Subsequent semesters include applied training in advanced methods of analysis and guidance writing and presenting results for academic, public, and general audiences. This practical training in social research prepares students to enter research and advocacy positions in government, for-profit and non-profit governmental organizations. It has an excellent track record for alumni acceptance into top doctoral sociology programs. Recent graduates work in research companies and university centers.
The program broadly focuses on the way that social inequalities of race-ethnicity, citizenship, immigration status, social class, gender, and sexuality influence health and well-being in the U.S. and abroad. Graduate students benefit from opportunities to engage with the intellectual community at American University and in DC at large. They are encouraged to become active members of the Immigration Lab, the Center for Latin American and Latino Studies (CLALS), and the Center on Health, Risk, and Society (CHRS). AU's location in Washington, DC, provides unparalleled access to government, research institutions, data and archival resources, advocacy organizations, and leaders involved in social change. Students experience a vibrant departmental culture of faculty and student engagement, all while living and working among influential policymakers and social advocates.
Once again, thank you for your interest in the Sociology Research & Practice program. For
information about American University or applying for admission, please visit the CAS Admissions website or contact the admissions team directly at casgrad@american.edu or (202) 885-3620. We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you into the program.
